Last Will & Testament

Last Will & Testament is an intriguing and thought-provoking 2012 documentary that explores one of history's greatest literary mysteries: Who wrote the works attributed to William Shakespeare? Directed by Lisa Wilson and Laura Wilson, the compelling feature film poses probing questions that have been a centuries-old enigma in the literary world.

The film stars esteemed scholars and performers Jonathan Bate, Charles Beauclerk, and William Boyle. Over its duration, Last Will & Testament takes its audience on a thrilling intellectual journey to investigate the authenticity of Shakespeare's authorship and to question whether the celebrated playwright from Stratford actually penned the classics attributed to him.

The documentary strategically utilizes a mix of interviews, re-enactments, and visually stunning historical footage to craft a riveting narrative. It invites audiences to engage in a thought experiment that begins in the period 200 years after the death of Shakespeare when doubts began to surface about the authenticity of his authorship. It then digs further back to the dramatic Tudor-Stuart period when the supposed works were actually developed.

Jonathan Bate, a well-regarded Shakespearean scholar, lends his profound academic expertise and perspective to the documentary. While Charles Beauclerk, a direct descendant of the Earl of Oxford, and William Boyle provide their compelling insights. Together, they carry the film's investigative narrative forward, oscillating between skepticism and belief, leaving audiences engrossed throughout the run-time.

In addition, the film also traces the establishment and growth of what is often referred to as the Anti-Stratfordian movement, challenging the conventional belief that a humble man from Stratford could have written with such eloquence, profound insight, and intimate knowledge of the nobility.

Last Will & Testament goes beyond just probing academic queries; it dives into the realm of the Elizabethan court, grandmasquerades, political intrigues, secret societies, and literary geniuses. The film argues that the Shakespearean works are filled with royal politics, court manners, foreign relations, and other topics outside the knowledge realm of an ordinary Joe. Hence, it fuels the suspicion that these masterpieces might have been the work of an aristocrat, possibly even a royal, shielded by the pseudonym of "William Shakespeare".

Apart from the intellectual queries, the film also raises questions of social inequality, class discrepancies, and the effective silencing of voices in Elizabethan England. It poses the possibility that the writer chose anonymity due to the socially volatile condition of the times in which criticism of the nobility, especially in public, would be met with harsh punishment.

While it takes an unconventional viewpoint, the film doesn't set out to demean the genius of Shakespeare. In contrast, it attempts to shed light on the truth and complexities of the artistic, cultural, and social milieu of Elizabethan and Jacobean England. It intends to determine the true author of the works attributed to Shakespeare - and in doing so, applaud the colossal genius behind those works, whoever the author may be.

Notably, the film debate isn’t one-sided. It seeks a balanced perspective by also presenting the contrary opinions of Stratfordians who firmly believe in the traditional authorship theory, enhancing the film's intellectual rigor and balance.

Last Will & Testament meticulously weaves a rich patchwork of research, conjecture, archival documents, and expert opinions. The narration is engrossing, the pacing is meticulous, and the arguments are presented convincingly, making it a captivating watch for those inclined towards literature, history, or a good detective story.

This is a film guaranteed to shake your beliefs, challenge your convictions, and leave you profoundly fascinated with the intricacies of the literary world. Shakespeare enthusiasts, history buffs, conspiracy theory fans, and general audience will find this film a thought-provoking, compelling exploration of one of literature's most enduring mysteries.

In conclusion, Last Will & Testament is a groundbreaking documentary that contends to change the way we perceive the Bard and his works. You may not agree with every proposition made or conclusion drawn, but the film's cogent argument and effective storytelling will undoubtedly captivate you. It's an intellectual roller coaster ride you won't want to miss.